When trying to become healthier and more fit, self-sabotage is a common theme that appears along the way. Whether we recognize it or not, it’s a common issue many people face when they are trying to achieve their goals. So how can we fix this? Well, we can’t FIX it per se, but if we are aware of the sabotage, it makes it easier for us to get back on track.

Self-sabotage can come from two places: the behavior of your family, friends and colleagues, or from your own inner rebellion. First let’s talk about sabotage from people in your life. When others watch us venture into this healthy lifestyle, some make negative comments about it. You may notice that people can feel threatened that you are embarking on this change and they may try to tempt you with food or activities that might not be in aligned with your goals. This type of sabotage can be very difficult because we desire to be accepted. We can feel guilty and threatened so we end up sabotaging ourselves in order to fit in. Many of us have a fear of not being loved. If we choose to be different from the crowd, we stand out. For the most part, people don’t like to stand out. Especially if it’s in a “negative” way.

When we take that step to better ourselves, relationships often are forced to shift. It’s important that you surround yourself with people who encourage you during your journey. Check out my most recent blog, Surround Yourself Around People Who Lift You Up for more on this topic. Like I discuss in that blog, it’s something I’ve really learned this past year. It’s SO important to make sure you surround yourself around positive people who support you. If you want to progress at all, I would even say it’s vital. So try and reflect on your current relationships, remember energies are contagious.

Now let’s talk about self-sabotage. When we take our lives into our own hands we tend to fear the unknown. We fear the change; we fear what might happen in 2 months time. What if you don’t lose those the weight you’ve been trying to lose for years? What if you fail? When we fail, we often make excuses for why we failed. That’s another form of self-sabotage. Because when you make excuses, you’re not taking responsibility for your actions.

Remember, make this about YOU, your health and how you want your life to turn out. Focus on feeling better and getting healthier. Try not to focus on a specific number. Don’t let the number on your scale define your worth and instead base success off of how you feel. Do you feel better? Do you have more energy? Are you happier? Those are the important things!

If you find yourself sabotaging yourself or letting other peoples opinions sabotage you, don’t get discouraged! It’s 100% normal and it happens to just about everybody. Take a step back and remember you are doing this for you. This is your life, your body and your mind. Make yourself a priority; I promise you will thank yourself later.